Dumb question, considered how dang long I’ve been watching skating. I know an Axel is required in the short program for men, either double or triple. Is it required in the Long? If not, if I’m Nathan, I ditch it. Go for the 5-6 quad long program, with no Axel.
4Lz
4F/3T
4F
4S
4T/2T/2Lo
4T
3Lz
3F
If this program is a bit much, take out the 4S, take off the 2R on the Quad Toe combo, make a 3Lz/1Lo/3S.
If the Axel is required, just go for a 2A at the end, and take out the weakest quad.
Nathan rarely ever performs a strong Axel with good GOE. Go with your strengths.
Deliberately singling the 3A in this free skate shows maybe Raffie and Nate are thinking the same thing as you are. Plus Nathan can sort of get rid of the sword of Damocles feeling before he jumps the 3A. He might feel more confident. "Hurray, no 3A at all, I can relax and do my best." rather than "Ugh, 3A, I am sure my landing will be wobbly like jello."

